Chiefs of Grant > Correspondence

434 ADDITIONAL GRANT CORRESPONDENCE. [1763.
517. The Eev. Robert Darly Waddilove, afterwards Dean of Eipon (address wanting),
probably to Mrs. Grant of Grant.
Wotton, near Dorking, Surry, April 24, Sunday, 1763.
" Blessed is he that expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed."
These words are not to be found in the rJ. T., but may be receiv'd as an additional
beatitude, laid down by an ingenious Englishman of some credit and experience. They
contain matter well worthy our present consideration, yet withal so plain and obvious a
truth, and enforced by such a reason, that I shall leave it to every one's own heart to make
the proper application. So far is my motto, Madam, as I know you chuse one, and I will
endeavour to spin out my letter at least to an equal length.
Eeveren cd Madam, — I am just come from church, and have fell into the practical style
unawares, when I should rather have begun with apologies ; but where shall I find any
sufficient to palliate my unpardonable neglect 1 What excuse can I offer in my behalf 1 To
have been honour'd with two letters from a lady, and suffer'd them to lye days, nay weeks,
unnoticed, will be such a charge as I can never stand against. I never more can shew my
face without blushes and confusion ; and I dare not even alledge forgetfulness, for then I
should lye. " Forget thee ! No ! I never can forget thee." I remembered the 7th of April,
and made a libation extraordinary. It is a day that shall always have a most respectful
place in my calendar ; it shall be appropriated to the name of Grant ; and I think, I hope, I
may be excused if my good wishes center in Mrs. Grant on one day, which are extended every
other to all that Elk (if this is the word). I hope, Madam, I have now conciliated matters
a little, and therefore begin to reproach you. How could you send me such a letter the day
you left Wotton 1 How could you again fall into the same error in your last ? Should these
things be so 1 (I hope you observe the honor I pay three lines by calling them a letter.) I
offer you my thanks for two piapiers receiv'd at the same time from your fair hands, and for
two others since from — why not the fair hands too, of James Grant 1 I have had no more,
I suppose as you may imagine that in this land of innocence and simplicity we have no occa-
sion for king's speeches, lying addresses, and public or private scandal. But here again,
Madam, give me leave to point out your mistake. Addresses would be of infinite service to
me. Though perhaps but rude materials, they might with little art be worked up for the
5th of May. However, it is yet in your power to repair this loss. Only prevail upon Mr.
Grant to send — to bring, I mean — the notes he took in the House of Commons, and I will
engage to make a good peace, and much to the satisfaction of my congregation. I must
nut say a word about the cyder, for that will spoil all. To you I may ; and it is proper
Mr. Grant should know that Mr. Browne will very soon send a hogshead of the best
Devonshire. I wish the gentleman, from his kindness, does not mistake the side Mr. Grant